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Does workers’ compensation apply for injuries off the clock?

On Behalf of | Dec 30, 2020 | Workers' Compensation |

North Carolina workers’ compensation assists employees who face an injury due to their jobs. You can receive compensation to take care of your medical bills and any loss of wages that occur. In some cases, an argument may arise if you were off the clock at the time of the injury. This is why it is essential to understand the law behind workers’ compensation.

How to be eligible for workers’ compensation

You are eligible for workers’ compensation if you receive your injury while on the clock on a normal basis. It is important that your workday is clearly defined, however, to determine the line. Commutes to work are not usually under coverage, but if you are on a task for the job, you can receive worker’s compensation in most cases.

Are you ever eligible off the clock?

Sometimes, there are instances in which you can receive workers’ compensation if you are off the clock. These instances include:

  • Travel for the business
  • Commutes for a special mission
  • Injuries on a sidewalk or in a parking lot of the business
  • Performance of job duties after work hours

Other conditions

There are other unique situations in which you may receive workers’ compensation benefits and be off the clock as well. This includes a chronic illness that you got from safety hazards at your workplace, such as lung cancer due to asbestos. You may also be able to prove a mental illness due to work conditions and receive workers’ compensation.

Prepare yourself

Many providers deny claims for workers’ compensation if you are off the clock. However, lawyers with experience in this field may be able to help you get compensation if you were performing work duties that led to your injury or illness.